Top 7 Things to Pack for a Mystery Break (And What to Leave Behind)

You’ve heard about Mystery Holidays and thought, “Yeah, that sounds like a laugh. Take my money and surprise me.”

But then the nerves kick in. How much “mystery” are we actually talking about? 

You might be picturing yourself at the airport, lugging a suitcase stuffed with flip flops and swimsuits, only to find out you’ve been sent packing for a soggy summer in Aberdeen.

Before you lose the plot and start dialling your therapist, take a breath. 

Here’s how it works: 

You book on our site, our algorithm spins the wheel (not literally, but wouldn’t that be fun?), and boom – your holiday tier is revealed instantly, with your destination emailed shortly after. 

Spoiler alert: never Aberdeen. Always a cracking holiday spot.

There’s zero need to stress. Well, except maybe for the packing bit. Our algorithm’s clever, but it can’t shove your socks in your suitcase (yet). 

Packing’s no one’s idea of a party, but don’t worry, that’s why we’re here. 

Whether you’re off to Prague, Phuket, or somewhere in between, we rounded up the items you won’t regret packing (unlike that 600-page novel you lugged to Corfu and never cracked open).

Grab a cuppa, dump your entire wardrobe on the bed, and let’s get you packed like a pro.

1. A Trusty Layer for All Occasions

It doesn’t matter if you’re off for tapas in Barcelona or to hit Times Square, a light jumper or jacket is your best mate. Planes get chilly. The weather can change suddenly. And you don’t want to be the one shivering through dinner, pretending they’re fine, do you?

❌ Don’t bring a jumper that can’t double as a pillow on the plane (trust us). And ditch any jacket that creases like a packet of crisps.

2. Your Walk-All-Day Shoes

Cobblestones. Hills. Your mate swearing, “just one more block”  

Packing comfy trainers that can go the distance and still look decent for a cheeky drink is a no-brainer.

❌ Don’t bring heels or shiny loafers — this isn’t Love Island. And besides, no one’s going to fancy you for your feet (we bloody hope not, anyway).

3. A Swimsuit, Because You Never Know

Even if you’re not off to the beach, you might get lucky with a rooftop pool, a hotel sauna, or a spontaneous spa visit. 

Swimwear takes up little space, and packing one saves you from shelling out £60 for a last-minute swimsuit at the hotel shop.

❌ Don’t assume it’s only for tropical destinations. You’ll cry when your mates are jumping into the hot tub, and you’re wondering if anybody can tell you’re wearing pants.

4. The One Great-For-All-Ocasions Outfit

You know the one: comfy, low effort, but still says “I’ve got my life together” (even if you packed in a panic at 1 AM). Great for rooftop drinks, dinners, or an impromptu salsa night in Seville.

❌ Don’t pack the sequinned dress, the three-piece suit, or anything that needs ironing. You’re going on holiday, not the BAFTAs.

5. A Decent Day Bag

Something small, light, and hands-free that fits your essentials: passport, phone, purse, and snacks. 

Choose your favourite bum bag, mini ruckpack, crossbody — whatever works, as long as it doesn’t leave your shoulders screaming by 4 PM. 

❌ Don’t bring your massive tote or a huge backpack (the one that looks like you’re hiking Ben Nevis). You’ll only feel like you’re lugging a ten month old baby while sightseeing all day. No, thanks. 

6. Essential Skincare

We’ve all overcooked it on day one, and ended up red, flaky, and hiding under a beach umbrella for the rest of the trip. Don’t be that person. Pack the bloody SPF.

You can never go wrong with the skincare holy trinity: sun cream, cleanser, and moisturiser. Ditch the rest.

❌ Don’t squeeze your 12-step routine into sad little 100ml bottles the evening before your flight. We promise no one will notice your “huge pores” in the holiday photos. 

7. A Plug Adapter. Honestly.

You’ve told yourself enough times that you wouldn’t drop another £40 on an airport adapter. Enough’s enough. Get yourself a universal adapter, toss it in your case, and never worry again. 

❌ Don’t bank on your mate packing one. And no, Matej at the hotel reception won’t have a clue where to buy one in Dubrovnik either.

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